Uhuru Kenyatta calls on healthcare workers to end strike

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta (pictured) has expressed his concern at the ongoing healthcare workers strike that has paralysed the public health sector in the East African nation and called on those taking part to "put human life above all other interests".

Striking doctors and nurses oppose a government plan to decentralise health administration and funding.

In a statement President Kenyatta said, "I have noted, with deep concern, the suffering of Kenyans as a result of the ongoing strike by health workers in Government facilities. This strike is totally unacceptable and goes against the Hippocratic Oath and basic principles of humane consideration for fellow Kenyans. I urge the unions involved in the strike to think, not of their personal interests, but the thousands of Kenyans who are suffering. I call upon all the doctors and other health workers who are on strike to resume work immediately so as to relieve the pain and anguish that Kenyans are currently enduring.

"Let me make it abundantly clear. My government is committed to fully implementing the constitution, and especially the provisions on devolution. The essence of devolution especially of health services is to bring services closer to the people. We must therefore give devolution a chance to work."